This Mindful reading resource for World Book Day 2026 comes from Jigsaw PSHE. It links reading for fun with the NHS 5 Ways to Wellbeing. Use it to support calm, reflective reading, help children notice how stories make them feel, and explore wellbeing through books.
Why it works
These activities help children slow down and think about their reading. They learn to notice emotions and physical responses, building emotional literacy and self-awareness. The calm scripts support children who find reading stressful and help create long-term mindful reading habits.
Who is it for
- Teachers creating calm reading sessions
- PSHE coordinators linking reading and wellbeing
- SENCOs supporting anxious readers
- Mindfulness leads in primary schools
- Anyone supporting reading routines for children aged 3-11
How to use it
Pick activities that fit your space and schedule. Use short “before reading” scripts as transitions, “during reading” prompts at natural stops, and “after reading” reflections to help children process what they’ve read. No special training is needed as the scripts guide every step. Start small and expand gradually as children get used to the approach.
Get started
Read through the scripts and try them yourself first. Introduce mindful reading slowly, explaining that children will focus on how books make them feel. Set a calm signal such as a chime or soft music to mark the start. Allow children who struggle to sit still to fidget quietly or change position.
Further Jigsaw resources
Part of the World Book Day + Jigsaw PSHE 2026 collection
Mindful Reading works alongside the Book collector cards and Book swap station headers. Use these scripts before children complete cards or at the start of stations to create a calm, reflective environment. They support the “Take Notice” wellbeing theme and reinforce your Assembly’s focus on reading and mental health. Visit the Jigsaw partner page for the full pack and downloads.
- Book swap station headers (matching colours and themes)
- Teacher guidance sheet
- Infographic guide
- Book Collector Cards
Use of World Book Day resources
These resources are free to use for schools, early years settings, libraries, charities, and community groups celebrating World Book Day. Commercial organisations must have a partnership or licence agreement in place before using World Book Day assets. If you are interested in working with us, please contact partnerships@worldbookday.com.
